A Study of Interoperability within AutoDesk FMDesktop.
Class project for AE 597F: Virtual Facility Prototyping
Team Members:
Colleen Kasprzak, Chitwan Saluja, and Tabitha Sprau
1. Autodesk FM Desktop
Autodesk Facility Management (FM) provides companies with an easy way to manage projects and various project components graphically. It is an easy to use software that allows facility managers and owners to get up to speed and productive almost immediately.
Current Uses:
Space Management
Allocations
Inventory
Project Management
Construction/Renovation
Move/Add/Change Management
Emergency Management
Disaster Planning
Recovery
Maintenance Management
Demand Maintenance
Scheduled Maintenance
2. Project Overview
For our study on interoperability within a facility management program, we decided to investigate Autodesk FM Desktop, focusing on equipment management. While investigating interoperability issues within this program, we compared it to the current equipment management process being utilized by Penn State's Office of Physical Plant.
The Computer Building is located at Penn State University, on the University Park campus was used to investigate the management potential of AutoDesk FM Desktop. Currently, a two story addition to the computer building is being constructed to provide more space for additional equipment which provides campus wide computer server support.
5. Computer-Aided Facility Management versus Computerized Maintenance Management System
There are two different types of computer programs which aid a facility manager in the management of a building and its assets. Computer-Aided Facility Management programs (CAFM) primarily focuses on issues regarding space management. While Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) focus on maintenance issues and their resolution within a facility.
A CAFM program contains allocation, amount, and location of spaces, as well as, owner, employee, and cost information. This type of software has the ability to manage relocation and renovation projects that change how the spaces look and work. Users of these types of programs also have the ability to add a graphical component, using CAD files, which allow for floor plans to be added to the facility information.
A CMMS program communicates problems and resolutions for initial work requests for a facility. Work orders can be created to track the maintenance steps taken to fix the problem. This software also provides the ability to create and a preventative maintenance program as well as tools that can manage asset information and maintenance history, equipment documentation, fleet maintenance, and staff and subcontractor activities.
CAFM and CMMS programs often overlap in activities creating a Total Integrated Facilities Management Software (TIFM), like Autodesk FM Desktop. FM Desktop is a CAFM application with CMMS functions built in, allowing a facility manager to supervise both facilities and CMMS processes through a single application.
6. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why does Autodesk FM Desktop require the use of DWF files?
A: A DWF file is a technology platform developed by Autodesk to distribute and communicate design information, without losing critical data. It is also important to note that the individual requesting this information does not need to know or even own the design software where the drawing or model was originally developed. These can even be generated and viewed at no cost through Autodesk's free DWF writer and DWF viewer. Because of this file format, drawing information management is simplified even outside the CAD environment.
Autodesk FM Desktop reads DWF's published from the Revit programs as well as AutoCAD, automatically interpreting space and room information without the FM Desktop user needing the Revit or AutoCAD software. Also, for non-AutoDesk applications, some manual editing to the data may be necessary depending on the quality of information during the transfer into the DWF file.
Q: What are some advantages of using Autodesk FM Desktop over other Facility Management tools?
A: One of the major advantages of using Autodesk FM Desktop is the fact that it utilizes the DWF files. As discussed in the previous question Autodesk is user friendly for none-CAD users who can generate and view DWF files using the free Autodesk DWF viewer program. The major advantage of Autodesk FM Desktop is the fact that individuals who do not have any CAD background are able to use the program so easily.
Q: How easily can drawings be updated?
A: Drawings exported from Autodesk FM Desktop can easily be marked up and composed in Autodesk Design Review. You can also respond to the marked up information in AutoCAD 2005 (or later), Autodesk Architectural Desktop 2005 (or later), AutoCAD Mechanical 2005 (or later), Autodesk Mechanical Desktop 2005 (or later), and Autodesk Building Systems 2005 (or later). Additionally, sheet views can be exported as DWF files and imported and linked to the markups in Autodesk Revit buildings so that the changes can be monitored.
Q: Are there any issues with exporting or importing into Autodesk FM Desktop?
A: There are two main problems with exporting and importing files into Autodesk FM Desktop. the first issues is the fact that Autodesk FM uses DWF files and you cannot export three dimensional DWF files from the program. The second issues is the fact that in order to import files directly from AutoCAD you have to use FM link otherwise Autodesk FM is unable to recognize individual rooms.
Q: What level of detail is needed for the models?
A: In order to manage the facility and issue work orders using FM Desktop it is imperative that the model contain information regarding the equipment dimensions, model, specs and supplier information. The model must also contain information about the equipments lifetime, maintenance history and projected future maintenance needs. Additional information about surrounding and supporting equipment along with occupant logistics are all used to allow FM Desktop to effectively manage the facility.
Q: Are their any interoperability issues with using non-Autodesk Programs?
A: Through a few extra steps, Autodesk FM Desktop has the ability to import files from other modeling and drafting programs, like Bentley Products. Some Bentley drafting and modeling software is based in AutoCAD and has the ability to be directly exported as a DWF file. This is a very important attribute which allows for a smooth transition between Bentley and Autodesk products. A more complicated procedure is when a model is produced in Bentley Architecture. This modeling program does not have the ability to directly export a DWF file, however it does have the ability to be exported as a DWG file. Once this file is exported into an Autodesk operable file (DWG) it can then be opened in an Autodesk program (Revit or AutoCAD) and then exported as a DWF file. Once all files are exported as DWF's, the same process of importing into Autodesk FMDesktop can be used.
7. Lessons Learned
Problems and Issues
Autodesk FM Desktop does not currently support network or floating licenses.
Seperate Facility Link and Facility Manager licenses are required for each user.
Autodesk FM Desktop uses DWF files and there is a problem with exporting three dimensional DWF files from Revit as well as importing them into FMDesktop.
Does not seem efficient to not be able to utilize 3-D capabilities.
If files are directly imported from AutoCAD without FMLink, FM Desktop is unable to recognize individual rooms and spaces.
Potential Challenges
Will the architect have problems sharing the model with the owner/facility manager?
Who will ultimately be in charge of the consolidation of data?
How much training will it require to get employees up to speed with using FM Desktop?
At what level does the author stop recording information?
Possible Solutions
Projects could have a designated team member who is responsible for consolidating the data.
Companies that adopt Autodesk FM Desktop as their facility management tool can address issues related to model sharing between architects and owners/facility managers at organized meetings to ensure that everybody is on the same page.
Companies using Autodesk FM Desktop should have a clearly defined level at which they stop recording information in Autodesk FM Desktop so that there is consistency between projects.
Value of the Work flow
The work flow allows for automatic work orders to be placed.
Allows for building spaces, equipment and maintenance all to be managed from a single source rather then needing multiple programs or having to do the work by hand.
8. Recommendations
Rather then switching directly from current facility management programs to using Autodesk FM Desktop, building owners can use both programs concurrently until all employees are comfortable using the FM Desktop software. This will also provide an opportunity to see any potential problems Autodesk FM Desktop.
Bamat, Kathy. The Pennsylvania State University: The Office of Physical Plant Employee. Apr 2008.
Haines, Brian. Product Marketing Manager, Autodesk, Inc.
Coombs, Sean. Autodesk FM Contact. Apr 2008.
Donovan, Doug. The Pennsylvania State University: The Office of Physical Plant Employee. Apr 2008.
East, E. William. "Construction Operations Building Information Exchange (COBIE)." 5 Mar 2008. Engineering Research and Development Center, U.s. Army, Corps of Engineers. Retrieved 20 Mar 2008 from <http://www.wbdg.org/resources/cobie.php>.
Facility Asset Management
A Study of Interoperability within AutoDesk FMDesktop.
Class project for AE 597F: Virtual Facility PrototypingTeam Members:
Colleen Kasprzak, Chitwan Saluja, and Tabitha Sprau1. Autodesk FM Desktop
Autodesk Facility Management (FM) provides companies with an easy way to manage projects and various project components graphically. It is an easy to use software that allows facility managers and owners to get up to speed and productive almost immediately.
Current Uses:
2. Project Overview
For our study on interoperability within a facility management program, we decided to investigate Autodesk FM Desktop, focusing on equipment management. While investigating interoperability issues within this program, we compared it to the current equipment management process being utilized by Penn State's Office of Physical Plant.
3. The Test Model
The Computer Building is located at Penn State University, on the University Park campus was used to investigate the management potential of AutoDesk FM Desktop. Currently, a two story addition to the computer building is being constructed to provide more space for additional equipment which provides campus wide computer server support.
Level of Information Needed for Model
4. Products Developed
5. Computer-Aided Facility Management versus Computerized Maintenance Management System
There are two different types of computer programs which aid a facility manager in the management of a building and its assets. Computer-Aided Facility Management programs (CAFM) primarily focuses on issues regarding space management. While Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) focus on maintenance issues and their resolution within a facility.
A CAFM program contains allocation, amount, and location of spaces, as well as, owner, employee, and cost information. This type of software has the ability to manage relocation and renovation projects that change how the spaces look and work. Users of these types of programs also have the ability to add a graphical component, using CAD files, which allow for floor plans to be added to the facility information.
A CMMS program communicates problems and resolutions for initial work requests for a facility. Work orders can be created to track the maintenance steps taken to fix the problem. This software also provides the ability to create and a preventative maintenance program as well as tools that can manage asset information and maintenance history, equipment documentation, fleet maintenance, and staff and subcontractor activities.
CAFM and CMMS programs often overlap in activities creating a Total Integrated Facilities Management Software (TIFM), like Autodesk FM Desktop. FM Desktop is a CAFM application with CMMS functions built in, allowing a facility manager to supervise both facilities and CMMS processes through a single application.
6. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why does Autodesk FM Desktop require the use of DWF files?
A: A DWF file is a technology platform developed by Autodesk to distribute and communicate design information, without losing critical data. It is also important to note that the individual requesting this information does not need to know or even own the design software where the drawing or model was originally developed. These can even be generated and viewed at no cost through Autodesk's free DWF writer and DWF viewer. Because of this file format, drawing information management is simplified even outside the CAD environment.Autodesk FM Desktop reads DWF's published from the Revit programs as well as AutoCAD, automatically interpreting space and room information without the FM Desktop user needing the Revit or AutoCAD software. Also, for non-AutoDesk applications, some manual editing to the data may be necessary depending on the quality of information during the transfer into the DWF file.
Q: What are some advantages of using Autodesk FM Desktop over other Facility Management tools?
A: One of the major advantages of using Autodesk FM Desktop is the fact that it utilizes the DWF files. As discussed in the previous question Autodesk is user friendly for none-CAD users who can generate and view DWF files using the free Autodesk DWF viewer program. The major advantage of Autodesk FM Desktop is the fact that individuals who do not have any CAD background are able to use the program so easily.Q: How easily can drawings be updated?
A: Drawings exported from Autodesk FM Desktop can easily be marked up and composed in Autodesk Design Review. You can also respond to the marked up information in AutoCAD 2005 (or later), Autodesk Architectural Desktop 2005 (or later), AutoCAD Mechanical 2005 (or later), Autodesk Mechanical Desktop 2005 (or later), and Autodesk Building Systems 2005 (or later). Additionally, sheet views can be exported as DWF files and imported and linked to the markups in Autodesk Revit buildings so that the changes can be monitored.Q: Are there any issues with exporting or importing into Autodesk FM Desktop?
A: There are two main problems with exporting and importing files into Autodesk FM Desktop. the first issues is the fact that Autodesk FM uses DWF files and you cannot export three dimensional DWF files from the program. The second issues is the fact that in order to import files directly from AutoCAD you have to use FM link otherwise Autodesk FM is unable to recognize individual rooms.Q: What level of detail is needed for the models?
A: In order to manage the facility and issue work orders using FM Desktop it is imperative that the model contain information regarding the equipment dimensions, model, specs and supplier information. The model must also contain information about the equipments lifetime, maintenance history and projected future maintenance needs. Additional information about surrounding and supporting equipment along with occupant logistics are all used to allow FM Desktop to effectively manage the facility.Q: Are their any interoperability issues with using non-Autodesk Programs?
A: Through a few extra steps, Autodesk FM Desktop has the ability to import files from other modeling and drafting programs, like Bentley Products. Some Bentley drafting and modeling software is based in AutoCAD and has the ability to be directly exported as a DWF file. This is a very important attribute which allows for a smooth transition between Bentley and Autodesk products. A more complicated procedure is when a model is produced in Bentley Architecture. This modeling program does not have the ability to directly export a DWF file, however it does have the ability to be exported as a DWG file. Once this file is exported into an Autodesk operable file (DWG) it can then be opened in an Autodesk program (Revit or AutoCAD) and then exported as a DWF file. Once all files are exported as DWF's, the same process of importing into Autodesk FMDesktop can be used.7. Lessons Learned
Problems and Issues
Potential Challenges
Possible Solutions
Value of the Work flow
8. Recommendations
9. References
"Autodesk FMDesktop." Autodesk. Retrieved 19 Feb 2008 from <http://usa.autodesk.com/adsk/servlet/index?id=8140558&siteID=123112>.
Bamat, Kathy. The Pennsylvania State University: The Office of Physical Plant Employee. Apr 2008.
Haines, Brian. Product Marketing Manager, Autodesk, Inc.
Coombs, Sean. Autodesk FM Contact. Apr 2008.
Donovan, Doug. The Pennsylvania State University: The Office of Physical Plant Employee. Apr 2008.
East, E. William. "Construction Operations Building Information Exchange (COBIE)." 5 Mar 2008. Engineering Research and Development Center, U.s. Army, Corps of Engineers. Retrieved 20 Mar 2008 from <http://www.wbdg.org/resources/cobie.php>.
"FM Desktop Home." Autodesk. Retrieved 19 Feb 2008 from <http://usa.autodesk.com/adsk/servlet/index?siteID=123112&id=8140558>.
Hodges, Sarah. Autodesk FM Contact. Apr 2008.
"IBM - Maximo Facility Asset Management" Retrieved 20 April 2008 from <http://www-306.ibm.com/software/tivoli/products/maximo-asset-mgmt/>
Khemlani, Lachmi. "AutoDesk FMDesktop: Extending BIM to Facilities Management." Retrieved 19 Feb 2008 from
<http://www.aecbytes.com/buildingthefuture/2007/FMDesktop.html>.
Sheppard, Scott. "Beyond the Paper." 26 Jun 2006. Retrieved 19 Feb 2008 from <http://www.cadopolis.com/autocad/autocad-blogs-featured.shtml>.
10. Facility Management News and Information
11. Acknowledgments
Dr. John Messner and Dragana Nikolic who have always believed in us and Facility Asset Management.
BONUS SECTION:
12. Joke of the Day
Q: What did the BIM-modeling frog say?
A: Revit. . . revit. . .
Q: Why did the tomato blush?
A: It saw the salad dressing. . . .
Q: What do you call a parrot wearing a raincoat?
A: Polly Un-saturated. . . .
Q: Two silk worms were in a race. What was the result?
A: A tie. . . .
Q: What did the angry customer at an Italian restaurant give the chef?
A: A pizza his mind. . . .